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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

A close-up pile of golden brown, crispy air fryer chicken tenders stacked on a white plate.
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Make juicy, crispy chicken tenders in your air fryer quickly. This recipe uses a light coating for maximum crunch, providing a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions, perfect for weeknight dinners or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • Cooking spray (oil-based)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken tenderloins completely dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick and promotes crispiness.
  2. Set up a dredging station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, whisk the egg and water together.
  3. In the second dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
  4. In the third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Take one tenderloin at a time and dredge it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  6. Dip the floured tenderloin into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
  7. Finally, press the tenderloin firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated tender on a clean plate. Repeat for all tenders.
  8. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes.
  9. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the tenders in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Work in batches if necessary.
  10. Spray the tops of the tenders lightly with cooking spray.
  11. Air fry for 10 minutes. Flip the tenders, spray the other side lightly, and continue to cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  12. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • For a ‘No Breading’ version: Skip the dredging station. Instead, toss the dried chicken tenders directly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. This is a great option for a low carb chicken tenders meal.
  • To achieve the best texture for meal prep chicken, cook until just done and avoid reheating in the air fryer if possible; they are best eaten fresh.
  • If you are interested in meal planning, these tenders pair well with simple roasted vegetables or a side salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipestokeep.com/air-fryer-chicken-tenders/